Remote mucking is a mining operation technique where equipment, such as loaders or scoop trams, is operated without an operator present in the cab, typically from a remote control station or safety stand. This method is mainly used in high-risk areas like blasted stopes, where there is a significant chance of rock falls that could endanger an operator in the equipment cabin. By controlling the equipment remotely, miners can increase safety by avoiding direct exposure to hazardous conditions during mucking activities(Understanding the Operation of Grinding Mills in the Mining and Mineral Processing Industry – NEWS – SMMVIK Machinery, n.d.).
The process involves switching the loader to remote control mode when it reaches a designated remote stand, after which the operator dismounts and controls the equipment from the safety stand. The loader then proceeds to excavate and haul ore or waste without a person onboard. Once the mucking is complete, the operator switches the machine back to manual mode and resumes normal operation.
Remote mucking is a significant safety advancement helping to mitigate risks associated with unstable ground and falling rocks while maintaining productivity underground.
Remote Mucking: Safety is the obvious win, but what is the least expected benefit you’ve seen since moving your Load-Haul-Dump (LHD) operators to a remote control room? (e.g., productivity consistency, operator retention, or energy savings?).
